Concern over Highland Perthshire banking provision as Pitlochry Bank of Scotland branch set to close
A call for a Highland Perthshire banking hub was made this week with the announcement that Pitlochry’s Bank of Scotland branch is to close this autumn.
Perthshire politicians expressed concern there will be no banks in the area when the Atholl Road branch closes on October 30.
First Minister and Perthshire North SNP MSP John Swinney said: “The planned closure of Bank of Scotland in Pitlochry is deeply concerning, particularly as it is the last remaining bank in the town.
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“While more people are using online banking, a significant amount – particularly elderly and vulnerable residents – still rely on in-person services for their day-to-day banking needs.
“The loss of a physical branch will make access even harder for those who depend on face-to-face support.
“I welcome the confirmation that there will be no job losses as a result of this closure, but that does not change the fact that this will be a significant blow to the local community.
“I am therefore seeking an urgent meeting with Bank of Scotland senior management to better understand the rationale behind this decision and to discuss what measures can be taken to ensure local customers are not left without essential banking services.”
Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser pointed to a cash access assessment carried out by the LINK banking network stating they will not recommend any new banking services for the area as there are already cash access services and facilities within a three-mile radius (the town’s Co-op and Premier stores and Aberfeldy’s Co-op six miles away) and called for a Highland Perthshire banking hub.
He said: “This is extremely disappointing news and I’m sure will be met with anger and concern from many residents in Pitlochry and across Highland Perthshire.
“It means that there will be no banking facility at all in the town from October and it will also force residents to travel to Perth to their banking.
“Sadly, it is a sign of the times, with banks blaming the move to close branches on changes in customer practices, with more people turning to online banking. However, this doesn’t bring any solace to residents, particularly in areas such as Highland Perthshire, where having a bank branch is very useful and, in some cases, a necessity due to travelling difficulties or their rural location.
“LINK have said Pitlochry residents can use cash machines in the vicinity but that is no substitute for a bank branch.”
Mr Fraser continued: “This move highlights the lack of logic in saying there is no case for a banking hub in Highland Perthshire.
“Rest assured I will be contacting LINK to make the case for a banking hub in Highland Perthshire.”